Research Assistant​/Research Associate

Position Information

Requisition Number S5020P Home Org Name Crop Soil and Environmental Sciences Division Name College of Agriculture Position Title Research Assistant/Research Associate Job Class Code HA01 A/B/C, HA02 A/B Appointment Status Full-time Part-time FTE Limited Term Yes Limited Term Length 1 year Job Summary

The individual selected for this position will be responsible for the preparation and analysis of various samples (e.g., water, soil, manure) using Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS), Gas Chromatography (GC), and High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC), XRD, and FTIR. The primary goal is to ensure accurate and reliable data generation in compliance with all quality assurance/quality control (QA/QC) procedures and safety regulations.

This is a two-year limited term position and is funded from external sources. Continuation of employment is contingent upon availability of funds.

• Sample Management:
  Collect (if required), prepare, and process a variety of samples for analysis using appropriate extraction and digestion techniques.
• Instrument Operation:
  Operate, calibrate, and perform routine and preventive maintenance on ICP-MS, GC, HPLC, IC, XRD, and FTIR instruments, as well as other general laboratory equipment.
• Data Analysis and Reporting:
  Interpret test data, record results accurately, and generate comprehensive reports.
• Quality Control & Compliance:
  Follow standardized protocols, perform quality control checks, and adhere to all health, safety, and regulatory guidelines (e.g., EPA guidelines).
• Troubleshooting:
  Identify and resolve technical issues with instrumentation and analytical procedures, potentially assisting in the development and validation of new methods.
• Collaboration and Documentation:
  Maintain accurate documentation, including daily logs and equipment record books, and collaborate effectively with other technicians, chemists, and quality assurance teams.
• Lab Maintenance:
  Ensure a clean, safe, and organized laboratory environment, including proper handling and disposal of chemical waste.

• Life-Changing Impact:
  Our work changes lives through research, instruction, and outreach, making a lasting impact on our students, our communities, and the world.
• Culture of Excellence:
  We are committed to leveraging our strengths, resources, collaboration, and innovation as a top employer in higher education.
• We’re Here for You:
  Auburn offers generous benefits, educational opportunities, and a culture of support and work/life balance.
• Sweet Home Alabama:
  The Auburn/Opelika area offers southern charm, vibrant downtown scenes, top-ranked schools, and easy access to Atlanta, Birmingham, and the Gulf of Mexico beaches.
• A Place for Everyone:
  Auburn is committed to fostering an environment where all faculty, staff, and students are welcomed, valued, respected, and engaged.

Ready to lead and shape the future of higher education? Apply today! War Eagle!

Research Assistant I: Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution in Chemistry, Environmental Science, Biology, Soil Chemistry, or a related field; no experience required.

Research Assistant II: Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution in Chemistry, Environmental Science, Biology, Soil Chemistry, or a related field and 2 years of experience working in an analytical or environmental laboratory setting, with hands‑on experience operating GC, HPLC, IC, FTIR, XRD, and ICP-MS instruments.

Research Assistant III: Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution in Chemistry, Environmental Science, Biology, Soil Chemistry, or a related field and 4 years of experience working in an analytical or environmental laboratory setting, with hands‑on experience operating GC, HPLC, IC, FTIR, XRD, and ICP-MS instruments.

Research Associate I: Master’s degree from an accredited institution in Chemistry, Environmental Science, Biology, Soil Chemistry, or a related field; no experience required.

Research Associate II: Master’s degree from an accredited institution in Chemistry, Environmental Science, Biology, Soil Chemistry, or a related field and 2 years of experience working…